What can you learn from the best players of all time?

Sep 11, 2023

Since I turned 28, I often joke that I'm almost 30. I've been watching and playing tennis for 2 decades, coincidentally the 3 best players of all time have been playing since I've been involved in tennis. Djokovic, Federer and Nadal, I have seen countless matches from all 3, and although they have of course stayed true to their style, you can see huge changes in their game. They have adapted again and again, or as Carlos Moya (former world number 1 and coach of Nadal) once said: “We lost a few weapons, but we have also added a few new ones.”

Today I would like to introduce you to a few of her principles that can help you in your tennis and perhaps in your life.

1.Kaizen-Constant Improvement

Kaizen is a Japanese word, it is usually related to the Toyota supply chain and how it has constantly improved. This principle can also be transferred to tennis. The top 3 have achieved everything, but they have continued to look for new trainers or specialists to further develop their skills. None of them have rested, which is precisely why they have dominated the sport for so long and are still dominating it. Maybe you don't have time to play tennis anymore because you're busy with work or school. But you can work mentally on your game or invest in better equipment. There are always ways to improve, no matter what level or context.

2.Study the Game

Playing and training tennis is extremely important, but the best of all time also placed a lot of focus on watching tennis. If you watch more tennis, you get a different feel for the game. You can recognize moves, weaknesses or strengths of an opponent more quickly. Beginners often choose wrong shots in certain game situations. There is no perfect formula, but if you watch a lot of world-class tennis, you will recognize which moves are the safest and most effective. You can find more about moves in my E-book.

3.Passion

We tennis players are always quick to curse the sport we love. This is just stressful and unnecessary. Of course, the top three have also gone crazy over the years, but Nadal and Federer almost never did. They love tennis and, even after decades, have enormous fun hitting, competing and competing. Passionate about always reaching new heights and improving details. Even after millions of hit balls, they bring joy and intensity back to the training field. Not everyone can have this passion, but we can try to follow the passion of Djokovic, Federer and Nadal. If your forehand gets stuck, don't freak out, just keep going and look for solutions.